1. Silicone & Synthetic Rubbers
- Uses: Skin-like texture for realistic touch, wound simulation, and facial features.
- Examples:
- Silicone – Used in high-end manikins (e.g., SynDaver) for lifelike tissue feel.
- Latex-free synthetic rubber – Found in CPR manikins like Laerdal’s Resusci Anne.
- Benefits: Flexible, durable, and easy to clean.
2. Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE & PVC)
- Uses: Cost-effective alternative to silicone for basic training manikins.
- Examples:
- TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) – Used in Gaumard’s HAL® for realistic skin feel.
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) – Common in budget-friendly CPR dummies.
- Benefits: Resistant to oils and disinfectants, long-lasting.
3. Polyurethane Foam & Plastics
- Uses: Internal structures, skeletal frames, and lightweight manikin bodies.
- Examples:
- Rigid plastics (ABS, polycarbonate) – Used in structural parts of high-fidelity manikins.
- Flexible foam – Simulates muscle and fat layers in surgical trainers.
- Benefits: Lightweight yet sturdy, good for repetitive use.
4. Metals & Mechanical Components
- Uses: Internal mechanisms for movement, joint articulation, and electronic sensors.
- Examples:
- Aluminum & steel – Used in robotic manikins like CAE Healthcare’s Lucina (for childbirth simulation).
- Springs & hydraulics – Enable breathing and pulse simulations.
- Benefits: Provides durability for mechanical functions.
5. Electronic & Smart Materials
- Uses: High-fidelity manikins with responsive AI, sensors, and interactive features.
- Examples:
- Conductive polymers – Allow for EKG and defibrillation training.
- Pressure-sensitive materials – Provide feedback on CPR compression accuracy.
- Benefits: Enables real-time performance tracking and adaptive learning.
Why Do Material Choices Matter?
- Realism: Silicone and TPE mimic human skin for better tactile training.
- Durability: Plastics and metals ensure long-term use in high-traffic training environments.
- Hygiene: Non-porous materials (like silicone and PVC) resist bacteria and are easy to sanitize.
- Cost: Budget models use PVC and foam, while advanced simulators invest in silicone and electronics.
Future Trends in Medical Manikin Materials
- Self-healing polymers – For longer-lasting manikins that repair minor wear and tear.
- Biocompatible materials – To simulate even more realistic tissue responses.
- 3D-printed components – Customizable anatomy for specialized training.
Conclusion
Medical manikins are made from a combination of silicone, TPE, plastics, metals, and smart materials, each chosen for durability, realism, and functionality. Whether it’s a simple CPR dummy or a high-tech robotic patient, the right materials ensure effective, safe, and repeatable training for healthcare professionals.